Review: #183
Name: Cherno Alpha
Brand: Pacific Rim (NECA)
Allegiance: Jaeger
Year of Release: 2014
Size Class: 7" figure (Series 3)
Variations: none as of yet
FIGURE:
A year after the movie was first released comes Cherno Alpha, the Mark-1 Russian Jaeger.
All details are faithfully reproduced here. There is an impressive amount of sculpted detailing from vents to pistons.
The figure features the distinctive giant nuclear reaction in the place where the head will be.
"Cherno Alpha" is tampographed on either side of the reactor.
Various other wordings include "USF - B6" and "Caution".
The pilot cockpit situates in the torso. Canonically, this causes Cherno Alpha to be one of the safest Jaegers for the pilots but it also means there are no escape routes, you either win... or die.
Paint applications are subtle, most of the figure has a brushed metallic look to it. It does make Cherno Alpha look uniform but the worn look suits it.
A comparison with his wave-mate, Coyote Tango. Cherno Alpha is one of the taller figures in the Pacific Rim series, however, most of the bulk is in the head (you can see that the legs and arms are spindly).
And just because I'm mostly a Transformers fan, here is Cherno Alpha in comparison with a Deluxe figure.
So, a shot of his arm...
...which features Cherno Alpha's distinctive assault method, extending fists! It's nice that it is not permanently molded in extended form (which I was afraid of when official pictures surfaced), rather, you pull the fist out (although it is easily popped out).
This gimmick is present in both hands.
As a first generation Jaeger and the oldest one still in service, the design isn't as sleek or cool as Gipsy Danger or Striker Eureka.
I have been spoiled by the level of articulation Transformers have because I feel disappointed with the range of motion Cherno Alpha has.
While Cherno Alpha doesn't disappoint in the size department, its articulation leaves a lot to be desired. In theory, it sounds good with balljointed shoulders and ankles, elbow hinges and a torso joint. In actuality, these joints are restricted, especially the shoulders and knees.
Then again, Jaegers weren't exactly the most dynamic of mechas and you can still get a good sense of scale from these figures.
Interestingly, the nuclear reaction head is also on a balljoint so you can swivel it to "face" its opponents. The fingers are all jointed as well allowing you to open and close its hand.
While Cherno Alpha is my least favorite design out of the four featured in the film, the toy has grown on me and simply looks fantastic. All the details from the film are present here, just fantastic in general.
OVERALL:
With the cheap price point, large size and film accuracy, Cherno Alpha is a brilliant action figure, whether it's for display or play. Lacking a bit in the poseability department, it makes up for it by looking great, smart paint apps and heft. Definitely recommended for fans of the film and it's great to hear that Pacific Rim 2 is officially happening!
-------------------------------------
While they may not be Pacific Rim figure reviews, check out this link for other toy reviews.
